System, method and apparatus for in-line removable pipe assembly

ABSTRACT

A pipe restraining system has first and second pipes. Each pipe has an axis and a groove adjacent an axial end thereof. A bushing bridges and hydraulically seals with the first and second pipes. First and second clamp rings are removably attach the bushing to a respective one of the first and second pipes. When the pipe restraining system is assembled, axial tensile loads passing through the first pipe are transmitted through the first clamp ring, the bushing and the second clamp ring to the second pipe. An axial distance between the first and second pipes remains substantially constant.

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat.App. No. 62/455,122, filed Feb. 6, 2017, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Disclosure

The present invention relates in general to pipes and, in particular, toa system, method and apparatus for in-line removable pipe assemblies.

Description of the Prior Art

Conventional spline-type, restrained pipe joint systems typically havesplines that are separate from the pipes. The splines can be lost duringtransportation or disassembly. Examples of such designs include U.S.Pat. No. 5,662,360, U.S. Pat. No. 7,284,310, and U.S. Pat. No.7,537,248. There are no “push to lock” type pipe joints that rely on aspline that automatically “expands” to open, and then snaps into place.Some users would prefer a quicker installation of restrained joint pipethat does not require “reversibility” (i.e., the ability to take thejoint apart after assembly), and yet still provide a robust pipe jointsystem. Thus, improvements in pipe restrained joints continue to be ofinterest.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of a system, method, assembly and apparatus for an in-lineremovable pipe assembly are disclosed. For example, a pipe restrainingsystem has first and second pipes. Each pipe has an axis and a grooveadjacent an axial end thereof. A bushing bridges and hydraulically sealswith the first and second pipes. First and second clamp rings areremovably attach the bushing to a respective one of the first and secondpipes. When the pipe restraining system is assembled, axial tensileloads passing through the first pipe are transmitted through the firstclamp ring, the bushing and the second clamp ring to the second pipe. Anaxial distance between the first and second pipes remains substantiallyconstant.

In another embodiment, a coupling for forming a joint between at leasttwo pipes is disclosed. The coupling has a bushing with a tubularprofile, an axis, an axial length, a bore with an inner diameter, anexterior with an outer diameter, and clamp grooves on an exterior of thebushing. The bushing receives axial ends of pipes. First and secondclamps are removably attached to a respective one of the clamp groovesin the bushing and a respective one of the pipes.

Another versions of a coupling for forming a joint between pipesincludes a bushing with a tubular profile, an axis, an axial length, abore with an inner diameter, and an exterior with an outer diameter. Thebushing receives axial ends of the pipes. First and second clamps areremovably attached to the bushing and to a respective one of the clampgrooves in a respective one of the pipes.

Versions of a pipe assembly includes a bushing with a tubular profile,an axis, bushing axial ends, and a bore with inner seal grooves. Firstand second pipes are mounted in the bore of the bushing. Each pipe has apipe axial end and an outer clamp groove. A distance A is defined as anaxial overlap distance from one of the bushing axial ends to arespective pipe axial end. A distance B is defined as an axialseparation distance from one of the bushing inner seal grooves to arespective pipe outer clamp groove, and B>A.

An examples of a pipe restraining system includes first and secondpipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent an axial end thereof. Abushing bridges and hydraulically seals with the first and second pipes.The bushing is threaded. First and second nuts are configured to threadto the bushing and removably attach the bushing to a respective one ofthe first and second pipes. When the pipe restraining system isassembled, axial tensile loads passing through the first pipe aretransmitted through the first nut, the bushing and the second nut to thesecond pipe. An axial distance between the first and second pipesremains substantially constant.

Embodiments of a system for restraining pipes includes first and secondpipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent an axial end thereof. Abushing bridges and hydraulically seals with the first and second pipes.First and second rings removably attach the bushing to a respective oneof the first and second pipes. When the system is assembled the firstand second rings have fingers that interlock with each other.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages of these embodiments willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of thefollowing detailed description, taken in conjunction with the appendedclaims and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the features and advantages of theembodiments are attained and can be understood in more detail, a moreparticular description may be had by reference to the embodimentsthereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. However, thedrawings illustrate only some embodiments and therefore are not to beconsidered limiting in scope as there may be other equally effectiveembodiments.

FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of an embodiment of a pipe system.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with one clampopen.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with both clampsclosed.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged isometric view of one the clamps in an openposition.

FIGS. 5a and 5b are sectional side views of alternate embodiments ofpipe systems.

FIGS. 6-8 are sectional side views of another embodiment of a pipesystem in a sequence of disassembly steps.

FIG. 9 is an isometric sectional view of the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8.

FIG. 10 is a sectional side view of yet another embodiment of a pipesystem.

FIGS. 11a and 11b are sectional side views of alternate embodiments ofpipe systems.

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a pipe system shownpartially disassembled.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 assembled.

FIG. 14 is a sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 shownpartially disassembled.

FIG. 15 is a sectional side view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 assembled.

The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicatessimilar or identical items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of a system, method, assembly and apparatus for an in-lineremovable pipe assembly are disclosed. For example, a pipe restrainingsystem 31 (FIGS. 1-4) may include first and second pipes 33, 35, eachhaving an axis 37 and a groove 39 adjacent an axial end 41 thereof. Abushing 43 may be configured to bridge and hydraulically seal with thefirst and second pipes 33, 35. System 31 also may include first andsecond clamp rings 45, 47. Each clamp ring 45, 47 may be configured toremovably attach the bushing 43 to a respective one of the first andsecond pipes 33, 35. Each pipe 33, 35 may comprise a seal 78 mounted ina seal groove 76 on the exterior thereof.

When the pipe restraining system 31 is assembled, axial tensile loadspassing through the first pipe 33 may be transmitted through the firstclamp ring 45, the bushing 43 and the second clamp ring 47 to the secondpipe 35. In addition, an axial distance 49 between the first and secondpipes 33, 35 can remain substantially constant when system 31 isassembled. Similarly, axial compressive loads passing through the firstpipe 33 may be transmitted through the first clamp ring 45, the bushing43 and the second clamp ring 47 to the second pipe 35.

In some versions, each of the first and second clamp rings 45, 47comprises a flange 51 that mates with the groove 39 in a respective oneof the first and second pipes 33, 35 when assembled. In this example,each of the first and second clamp rings 45, 47 does not comprise a fullcylindrical shape.

Each of the pipe restraining systems disclosed herein has a number ofadvantages. For example, during disassembly of the system 31 and withoutaxially moving the first and second pipes 33, 35, the bushing 43 canaxially slide completely over one of the first and second pipes 33, 35and have no overlap with the other of the first and second pipes 33, 35.In the example of system 131 in FIGS. 6-9, pipes 133, 135 axially abuteach other. In FIG. 6, system 131 is completely assembled. In FIG. 7,second clamp ring 147 is uncoupled from bushing 143, which first clampring 145 remains connected to bushing 143. Pipes 133, 135 still abut. InFIG. 8, the sub-assembly of bushing 143 and first clamp ring 145 areaxially slid to the left so that bushing 143 no longer contacts oroverlaps pipe 135. Again, pipes 133, 135 still abut each other. At thisstage pipe 135 may be removed from system 131, second clamp ring 147 maybe removed from pipe 135 and installed on a new pipe, and the new pipecan be installed in system 131 as pipe 135 once was (like FIG. 6). Inthis version, the first and second clamp rings 145, 147 are threaded tothe bushing 143.

Hinge Lock

Embodiments of a coupling for forming a joint between at least two pipes33, 35 (FIGS. 1-4) also is disclosed. The coupling may include thebushing 43 having a tubular profile with an axis 37, an axial length 71,a bore 73 with an inner diameter 75, and an exterior 77 with an outerdiameter 79. In one example, bushing inner diameter 75 is substantiallyconstant along an entirety of the axial length 71. The bushing outerdiameter 79 can be substantially constant along an entirety of the axiallength 71, other than the clamp grooves 81 and chamfered axial ends.

The bushing 43 may include clamp grooves 81 on the exterior 77. Thebushing 43 may be configured to receive axial ends of pipes 33, 35, asshown. The first and second clamps 45, 47 are each configured to beremovably attached to a respective one of the clamp grooves 81 in thebushing 43 and a respective one of the pipes 33, 35. In one version, thebushing 43 is configured to symmetrically straddle the two pipes 33, 35relative to the axis 37, and the two pipes 33, 35 are configured to befree of contact with each other, as shown. In an example, the pipe clampgrooves 39 may be radially offset from the bushing clamp grooves 81 withrespect to the axis 37, such that the pipe clamp grooves 39 are notco-planar with the bushing clamp grooves 81.

Each clamp 45, 47 may include the pipe lip 51 and a bushing lip 82extending from an interior thereof. The pipe lip 51 may be sized andspaced to cooperatively mate with the pipe groove 39. The bushing lip 82may be sized and spaced to cooperatively mate with one of the clampgrooves 81 on the bushing 43 to form a rigid pipe assembly.

As shown in FIGS. 2-4, each clamp 45, 47 may include a hinge 48. Eachhinge 48 on each clamp 45, 47 may have a pin 50 that is permanentlymounted in the hinge 48. In addition, each clamp 45, 47 may include aclasp 52 configured to be releasably closed. The clasp 52 may comprise aclosed configuration (FIG. 3) wherein the pin 50 is located in the clasp52, and an open configuration (FIGS. 2 and 4) wherein the pin 50 isremoved from the clasp 52. In one example, each pin 50 may comprise apolymer. In another example, each pin 50 may comprise at least one of asnap element configured to capture the pin 50, and a radial expansiondevice configured to expand the pin 50 when installed. In one example, asolid pin 50 may be pushed into a hollow center. The pin 50 can be acylindrical, or square/rectangular key slid into a keyway formed whenthe two clamp halves come together. These components may be molded. Inone version, every component comprises a polymer (e.g.,polyvinylchloride, or PVC), and there are no metal components in thesystem.

In an example, each pin 50 may include a pin axis 54 (FIG. 3) that isparallel to the pipe and bushing axis 37. Each pin 50 may connectdirectly to a respective clamp 45, 47 with no additional hardware. Inone version, the pins 50 are not threaded.

Each clamp 45, 47 may comprise semi-cylindrical clamp portions, asshown, that are configured to mirror each other and form a completecylindrical clamp around one of the pipes 33, 35 and the bushing 43 wheninstalled. The semi-cylindrical clamp portions may include cooperatingfeatures (e.g., hinge 48, clasp 52, etc.) that snap onto each other wheninstalled. Each clamp 45, 47 may include a generally C-shaped radialsectional profile relative to the axis 37. Each clamp 45, 47 maycomprise axial ends, each axial end terminates in an annular profilethat is radially inward-extending (e.g., lips 51, 81 in FIG. 1), and theannular profiles are radially offset from each other with respect to theaxis 37, such that the annular profiles are not co-planar. Each annularprofile can terminate at a flat inner surface (again, see lips 51, 81)that is parallel to the axis 37. In a version, the clamps 45, 47themselves comprise no seals, such that there are no seals directlybetween the clamps 45, 47 and respective ones of the pipes 33, 35. Insome embodiments, the only seals are configured to be between thebushing 43 and respective ones of the pipes 33, 35. In an example, thereare no seals directly between the bushing 43 and the clamps 45, 47.

Embodiments of the bushing 43 may comprise one of a straight coupling,an elbow and a tee. Each clamp 45, 47 may include a tapered profile (seeFIG. 1) along the axial direction to reduce drag during pipeinstallation. An axial center of the bushing 43 may include a tappedhole (not shown) configured for connection to a component, such as ariser or another pipe. The tapped hole may be configured to be pluggedwhen the component is not used, and the component can be a tee or a wye.

Embodiments of the coupling may include an anchor configured to enhancemovement of the coupling relative to the pipe 33, 35 using tools. Forexample, prior to assembly, the grooves 81 may be used as an anchoringpoint to facilitate relative axial movement between the bushing 43 andone or both pipes 33, 35. The coupling may comprise ahydraulically-sealed interface between the pipes 33, 35 and the clamps45, 47 to maintain the pipes 33, 35 axially spaced-apart from each otherin operation including under fluid pressure, and tensile and compressiveloading conditions.

As shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 5a and 5b , the bushing bore 273 mayinclude a shoulder 274 configured to limit axial travel of the pipes233, 235. The bushing bore 273 may include seal grooves 276 having seals278 mounted therein. Embodiments of a pipe assembly 231 may include abushing 243 having a tubular profile with an axis 237, bushing axialends 238, and a bore 273 with inner seal grooves 276. First and secondpipes 233, 235 are mounted in the bore 273 of the bushing 243. Each pipe233, 235 has a pipe axial end 241 and an outer clamp groove 239.

In some examples, a distance A is defined as an axial overlap distancefrom one of the bushing axial ends 238 to a respective pipe axial end241. A distance B is defined as an axial separation distance from one ofthe bushing inner seal grooves 276 to a respective pipe outer clampgroove 239. In one version, B>A. The bore 273 of the bushing 243 mayinclude a stop 274 for limiting axial travel of the pipes 233, 235. Adistance C may be defined as an axial stop distance from the stop 274 toa respective pipe axial end 241. In one version, C>A. In an embodiment,the seal 278 in seal groove 276 does not contact the retaining ring 280(FIG. 5b ) or fall into the retaining groove 239. In an example, thedistance C the clearance in the assembled position between the edge 241of the pipe 233, 235 and the edge of any feature that would come incontact with the pipe 233, 235 during dis-assembly. The gap C may besufficiently large enough for the coupling to slide back onto one of thepipes 233, 235 and clear the opposite pipe 233, 235. In still otherembodiments, system 31 may include a pipe assembly, a method of forminga pipe joint, and/or a method of replacing a component in a pipe system.

Thread Lock

Returning to the embodiments of FIGS. 6-9, system 131 may furtherinclude a retaining ring 153 configured to be installed in the groove139 of a respective one of the first and second pipes 133, 135. Theretaining ring 153 may be configured to be captured inside a recess 155of a respective one of the first and second clamp rings 145, 147. In oneexample, the retaining ring 153 may comprise a spline. In addition, thebushing 143 may comprise interior seal grooves 176 having seals 178(e.g., o-rings) mounted therein. Although seals 178 are illustrated asundeflected against pipes 133, 135, they would naturally compress to theexterior shape of the pipes 133, 135.

Examples of each clamp ring 145, 147 may comprise a single componenthaving fully cylindrical shape without a split (e.g., contrast the split57 (FIG. 4) in rings 45, 47) in the clamp ring 145, 147. In someversions, each clamp ring 145, 147 may include a first inner diameter(ID) 159 (FIG. 6) sized to fit over an outer diameter (OD) of each pipe133, 135 but not over the OD 161 of the retaining ring 153. Each clampring 145, 147 also may include a second ID 163 sized to fit over the OD165 of the bushing 143.

Versions of the clamp rings 145, 147 may be characterized as nuts withdrive flats 148 for attachment of a tool to assist rotating clamp rings145, 147 about axis 137. The nuts may be configured to be removablyattached to the bushing 143 and a respective pipe 133, 135 to form thepipe joint.

Embodiments of the bushing 143 may include an inner diameter that issubstantially constant along an entirety of its axial length, other thanseal grooves 176. Alternatively, the pipes 133, 135 may comprise theseal grooves rather than the bushing. The pipes 133, 135 may includeinner and outer diameters that are substantially constant along theirentire axial lengths. As shown in FIGS. 6-8, the outer diameter of thebushing 143 can be substantially radially flush with outer surfaces ofthe clamp rings 145, 147. In one example, the clamp rings 145, 147 areaxially longer than the bushing 143. The retainer rings disclosed hereinmay comprise split rings or continuous rings. The retainer rings maycomprise a molded polymer.

In some versions, each clamp ring 145, 147 may include a spline slot 156configured to allow the nut to be axially movable along a respectivepipe prior to formation of the pipe assembly. In an example, the bushing143 may be configured to be indirectly axially restrained with respectto the pipes 133, 135 via the clamp rings 145, 147 after formation ofthe pipe assembly. In another example, the bushing 143 is not configuredto be directly axially restrained with respect to the pipes 133, 135after formation of the pipe assembly. In still another example, andprior to formation of the pipe assembly, the bushing 143 may beunrestrained to freely move axially along outer surfaces of the pipes133, 135. The bushing 143 and the clamp rings 145, 147 may comprise apolymer, such as PVC.

Embodiments of the bushing 143 may be externally threaded and configuredto couple to internal threads in each of the clamp rings 145, 147. Inone version, the pipe assembly is configured to be secured only withseals 178, threads and retainer rings 153. In another version, the pipeassembly consists only of the bushing 143, clamp rings 145, 147 andpipes 133, 135, other than seals 178 and retainer rings 153. Examples ofthe bushing 143 can radially engage and directly axially abut an axiallyplanar surface of each of the clamp rings 145, 147 after formation ofthe pipe assembly. Versions of the bushing 143 and clamp rings 145, 147are configured to not be restrained from rotation relative to the pipes133, 135 after formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiments of the clamp rings 145, 147 may include a first innerdiameter 159 (FIG. 6) for engaging an exterior of a respective pipe 133,135, a second inner diameter 161 for receiving a portion of a retainerring 153, and a third inner diameter 163 for engaging the bushing 143.In one example, the first inner diameter 159<the second inner diameter161<the third inner diameter 163. In another example, the first innerdiameter 159 is substantially similar to the inner diameter of thebushing 143, and the second inner diameter 161>the bushing innerdiameter. The first inner diameter 159 can be substantially constantalong its entire axial length. The second inner diameter 161 can besubstantially constant along its entire axial length. The second innerdiameter 161 can be located axially between the first inner diameter 159and the third inner diameter 163. In one example, the first, second andthird inner diameters 159, 161, 163 each has a nut segment axial length(NSAL), and the second NSAL>the first NSAL>the third NSAL.

In one version, the pipes 133, 135 substantially axially abut each otherafter formation of the pipe assembly. In another version, the pipes 133,135 are free of contact with each other after formation of the pipeassembly.

In some versions (FIGS. 10, 11 a and 11 b), the first and second clamprings 345, 347 may directly engage each other. For example, the firstand second clamp rings 345, 347 may coaxially (along axis 337) thread toeach other. One of the clamp rings 345, 347 may overlap the otherrelative to the axis 337. The system 311 may further include a retainerring 346 (e.g., a spline) configured to complete the assembly. In anexample, the retainer ring 346 can couple the clamp rings 345, 347 toeach other (FIG. 10). In one version, the retainer ring 346 may be usedto attach the first and second clamp rings 345, 347 to the bushing 343.In the example of FIG. 10, only one of the first and second rings 345,347 contacts the exterior of the bushing 343.

In another example, the retainer ring 346 (FIGS. 11a and 11b ) couplesclamp rings 345, 347 to each other, and no bushing is used. Rather, sealgrooves 376 and seals 378 can be in at least one of the clamp rings 345,347. In addition, some examples of the embodiments of FIGS. 11a and 11bhave no threads, such that clamp rings 345, 347 are secured to eachother only with retainer ring 346.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11 b, pipes 333, 335 have ringgrooves 339 that receive retainer rings 353 for securing the assembly.In the FIG. 11b version, clamp rings 345, 347 have apertures 352 throughwhich retainer rings 353 (FIG. 10) may be installed to secure theassembly. An analogous aperture may be provided for retainer ring 346.Also, in FIG. 11a , clamp rings 345, 346 have inner lips 351 that mountdirectly in ring grooves 339 in pipes 333, 335. This design eliminatesthe need for the additional retainer rings. Other examples may include apipe system, a method of forming a pipe joint and a method of replacinga component in a pipe system.

Finger Lock

In still other versions (FIGS. 12-15), a system 431 may include clamprings 445, 447 having fingers 483 that are configured to interlock. Inone example, the fingers 483 comprise castellations. The fingers 483 canbe rectilinear in shape and configured to be parallel to other ones ofthe fingers 483 when engaged. The interlocking fingers 483 may beconfigured to accept a retainer ring 446 through apertures 448, suchthat the retainer ring 446 also engages with a groove 444 in the bushing443 and grooves 450 in inner surfaces of the fingers 483. In an example,apertures 448 are in communication with the grooves 444, 450 andconfigured for providing ingress and egress thereto. When the system 431is assembled (FIG. 13), the apertures 448 may collectively form asingle, unitary access hole for the system 431. The retainer ring 446can be axially centralized on at least one of the bushing 443 and theclamp rings 445, 447.

In a system 431 for restraining pipes 433, 455 with grooves 439 adjacenttheir axial ends, the bushing 443 is configured to bridge andhydraulically seal with the pipes 433, 435. Each of the clamp rings 445,447 is configured to removably attach the bushing 443 to a respectiveone of the pipes 433, 435. When the system 431 is assembled the fingers483 of the clamp rings 445, 447 interlock with each other. Retainingrings 453 in pipe grooves 439 may be captured inside recesses 456 of theclamp rings 445, 447.

Embodiments of the system may include pipes 433, 435 with axes 437 andgrooves 439 adjacent axial ends thereof. The clamp rings 445, 447 may beconfigured to be removably attached to a respective one of the pipes433, 435 with the retaining rings 453. When the system 431 is assembled,fingers 483 on the clamp rings 445, 447 interlock with each other.

Other versions may include one or more of the following embodiments:

Embodiment 1

A pipe restraining system, comprising:

first and second pipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent anaxial end thereof;

a bushing configured to bridge and hydraulically seal with the first andsecond pipes; and

first and second clamp rings, each configured to removably attach thebushing to a respective one of the first and second pipes, such thatwhen the pipe restraining system is assembled, axial tensile loadspassing through the first pipe are transmitted through the first clampring, the bushing and the second clamp ring to the second pipe, and anaxial distance between the first and second pipes remains substantiallyconstant.

Embodiment 2

The pipe restraining system of any of these embodiments, wherein duringdisassembly of the pipe restraining system and without axially movingthe first and second pipes, the bushing is configured to axially slidecompletely over one of the first and second pipes and have no overlapwith the other of the first and second pipes.

Embodiment 3

The pipe restraining system of any of these embodiments, wherein each ofthe first and second clamp rings comprises a flange that mates with thegroove in a respective one of the first and second pipes when assembled.

Embodiment 4

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising a retainingring configured to be installed in the groove of a respective one of thefirst and second pipes, and the retaining ring is configured to becaptured inside a recess of a respective one of the first and secondclamp rings.

Embodiment 5

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ringcomprises a spline.

Embodiment 6

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp ring is fullycylindrical without a split in the clamp ring, and each clamp ringcomprises a first inner diameter (ID) sized to fit over an outerdiameter (OD) of each pipe but not over the OD of the retaining ring,and a second ID sized to fit over the OD of the bushing.

Embodiment 7

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising a splineconfigured to attach the first and second clamp rings to the bushing.

Embodiment 8

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the first and secondclamp rings thread to each other or to the bushing.

Embodiment 9

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the first and secondclamp rings comprise fingers that are configured to interlock.

Embodiment 10

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the interlocking fingersare configured to accept and engage a spline with the bushing.

Embodiment 11

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the first andsecond clamp rings does not comprise a full cylindrical shape.

Embodiment 12

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein axial compressive loadspassing through the first pipe are transmitted through the first clampring, the bushing and the second clamp ring to the second pipe.

Embodiment 13

A coupling for forming a joint between at least two pipes, the couplingcomprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, a borewith an inner diameter, an exterior with an outer diameter, clampgrooves on an exterior of the bushing, and the bushing is configured toreceive axial ends of pipes; and

first and second clamps, each configured to be removably attached to arespective one of the clamp grooves in the bushing and a respective oneof the pipes.

Embodiment 14

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing isconfigured to symmetrically straddle two pipes relative to the axis, andthe two pipes are configured to be free of contact with each other.

Embodiment 15

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing innerdiameter is substantially constant along an entirety of the axiallength.

Embodiment 16

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing borecomprises a shoulder configured to limit axial travel of the pipes.

Embodiment 17

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing borecomprises seal grooves.

Embodiment 18

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing borecomprises seals mounted in the seal grooves.

Embodiment 19

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing outerdiameter is substantially constant along an entirety of the axiallength.

Embodiment 20

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe isconfigured to comprise a seal groove on the exterior thereof.

Embodiment 21

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe isconfigured to comprise a seal mounted in the seal groove on the exteriorthereof.

Embodiment 22

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe isconfigured to comprise a clamp groove on an exterior thereof.

Embodiment 23

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe clamp groovesare radially offset from the bushing clamp grooves with respect to theaxis, such that the pipe clamp grooves are not co-planar with thebushing clamp grooves.

Embodiment 24

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe isconfigured to comprise a seal groove on an exterior thereof.

Embodiment 25

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp comprises ahinge.

Embodiment 26

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the hinge on eachclamp comprises a pin that is permanently mounted in the hinge.

Embodiment 27

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp comprises aclasp configured to be releasably closed.

Embodiment 28

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the clasp comprises aclosed configuration wherein the pin is located in the clasp, and anopen configuration wherein the pin is removed from the clasp.

Embodiment 29

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pin comprises apolymer.

Embodiment 30

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pin comprises atleast one of a snap element configured to capture the pin, and a radialexpansion device configured to expand the pin when installed.

Embodiment 31

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp has a pipelip and a bushing lip extending from an interior thereof, the pipe lipis sized and spaced to cooperatively mate with a pipe groove, and thebushing lip is sized and spaced to cooperatively mate with one of theclamp grooves on the bushing to form a rigid pipe assembly.

Embodiment 32

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp comprisessemi-cylindrical clamp portions that are configured to mirror each otherand form a complete cylindrical clamp around one of the pipes and thebushing when installed.

Embodiment 33

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the semi-cylindricalclamp portions comprise cooperating features that snap onto each otherwhen installed.

Embodiment 34

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the semi-cylindricalclamp portions comprise features configured to form a hinge when matedtogether.

Embodiment 35

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the features compriseat least one of a snap element configured to capture a pin, and a radialexpansion device configured to expand the pin when installed.

Embodiment 36

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pin has a pinaxis that is parallel to the bushing axis.

Embodiment 37

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pin connectsdirectly to a respective clamp with no additional hardware.

Embodiment 38

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the pins are notthreaded.

Embodiment 39

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the bushing,clamps, hinges, clamps and pins comprise a polymer.

Embodiment 40

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the polymer comprisepolyvinylchloride (PVC).

Embodiment 41

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp has agenerally C-shaped radial sectional profile relative to the axis.

Embodiment 42

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp has axialends, each axial end terminates in an annular profile that is radiallyinward-extending, and the annular profiles are radially offset from eachother with respect to the axis, such that the annular profiles are notco-planar.

Embodiment 43

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each annular profileterminates at a flat inner surface that is parallel to the axis.

Embodiment 44

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the clamps comprise noseals.

Embodiment 45

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the only seals areconfigured to be between the bushing and respective ones of the pipes.

Embodiment 46

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein there are no sealsconfigured to be directly between the bushing and clamps.

Embodiment 47

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein there are no sealsconfigured to be directly between the clamps and respective ones of thepipes.

Embodiment 48

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing comprisesone of a straight coupling, an elbow and a tee.

Embodiment 49

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each clamp comprises atapered profile to reduce drag during pipe installation.

Embodiment 50

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein an axial center of thebushing comprises a tapped hole configured for connection to acomponent.

Embodiment 51

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the tapped hole isconfigured to be plugged when the component is not used, and thecomponent comprises a tee or a wye.

Embodiment 52

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the coupling comprisesan anchor configured to enhance movement of the coupling relative to thepipe using tools.

Embodiment 53

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the coupling isconfigured to comprise a hydraulically-sealed interface between thepipes and the clamps are configured to maintain the pipes axiallyspaced-apart from each other in operation including under fluidpressure, and tensile and compressive loading conditions.

Embodiment 54

The coupling of any of these embodiments, further comprising elastomericseals configured to provide a fluid tight seal between the bushing andthe pipes.

Embodiment 55

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein when the pipes areassembled with the coupling, tensile loads applied axially aretransferred through the clamps to the pipes.

Embodiment 56

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein when the pipes areassembled, tensile loads applied that would pull an unrestrainedassembly apart are supported by the clamps to maintain integrity of thebushing and pipes assembly.

Embodiment 57

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein when the pipes areassembled, compression loads on the pipes are transferred through theclamps and bushing.

Embodiment 58

A coupling for forming a joint between at least two pipes, each of thepipes having a clamp groove, the coupling comprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, a borewith an inner diameter, an exterior with an outer diameter, and thebushing is configured to receive axial ends of pipes; and

first and second clamps, each configured to be removably attached to thebushing and to a respective one of the clamp grooves in a respective oneof the pipes.

Embodiment 59

A coupling for forming a joint between at least two pipes, the couplingcomprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, a borewith an inner diameter, an exterior with an outer diameter, and thebushing is configured to receive axial ends of pipes; and

first and second clamps, each configured to be removably attached to thebushing and to a respective pipe, each clamp having axial ends, eachaxial end terminates in an annular profile that is radiallyinward-extending, and the annular profiles are radially offset from eachother with respect to the axis, such that the annular profiles are notco-planar.

Embodiment 60

A coupling for forming a joint between at least two pipes, the couplingcomprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, axialends, a bore with an inner diameter, an exterior with an outer diameter,and each axial end of the bushing is configured to receive a pipe axialend;

first and second clamps, each configured to be removably attached over arespective axial end of the bushing and to a respective pipe, each clampcovers one axial end of the bushing, and the clamps comprise no clampseals; and

the coupling comprises no metal components.

Embodiment 61

A pipe assembly, comprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, bushing axial ends, anda bore with inner seal grooves;

first and second pipes mounted in the bore of the bushing, each pipehaving a pipe axial end and an outer clamp groove;

a distance A is defined as an axial overlap distance from one of thebushing axial ends to a respective pipe axial end; and

a distance B is defined as an axial separation distance from one of thebushing inner seal grooves to a respective pipe outer clamp groove, andB>A.

Embodiment 62

The pipe assembly of any of these embodiments, wherein the bore of thebushing comprises a stop for limiting axial travel of the pipes, adistance C is defined as an axial stop distance from the stop to arespective pipe axial end, and C>A.

Embodiment 63

A coupling for forming a joint between two pipes, the couplingcomprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, anexterior, a bore with an inner diameter, and the bushing is configuredto receive axial ends of the pipes; and

first and second nuts, each configured to be removably attached to thebushing and a respective pipe to form the joint.

Embodiment 64

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing innerdiameter is substantially constant along an entirety of the axiallength.

Embodiment 65

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing borecomprises seal grooves, each configured to retain a seal for each of thepipes.

Embodiment 66

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe comprises aseal groove configured to retain a seal for the bushing.

Embodiment 67

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipes have innerand outer diameters configured to be substantially constant along entireaxial lengths thereof.

Embodiment 68

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing has anouter diameter that is configured to be substantially radially flushwith outer surfaces of the nuts.

Embodiment 69

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing outerdiameter comprises a bushing OD axial length, and each of the nutscomprise a nut outer diameter (OD) axial length that is greater than thebushing OD axial length.

Embodiment 70

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each pipe has a splinegroove configured to retain a spline.

Embodiment 71

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each spline is a splitring or a continuous ring.

Embodiment 72

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each spline is amolded polymer.

Embodiment 73

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each nut comprises aspline slot configured to allow the nut to be axially movable along arespective pipe prior to formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 74

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing isconfigured to be indirectly axially restrained with respect to the pipesvia the nuts after formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 75

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing is notconfigured to be directly axially restrained with respect to the pipesafter formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 76

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein, prior to formation ofthe pipe assembly, the bushing is unrestrained to freely move axiallyalong outer surfaces of the pipes.

Embodiment 77

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing and thenuts comprise a polymer.

Embodiment 78

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the polymer comprisepolyvinylchloride (PVC).

Embodiment 79

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein there are no sealsconfigured to be directly between the bushing and the nuts.

Embodiment 80

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein there are no sealsconfigured to be directly between the nuts and the pipes.

Embodiment 81

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein there are no sealsthat directly contact the nuts.

Embodiment 82

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the only seals of thepipe assembly are configured to be between the bushing and the pipes.

Embodiment 83

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing isexternally threaded and configured to couple to internal threads in eachof the nuts.

Embodiment 84

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assembly isconfigured to be secured only with seals, threads and splines.

Embodiment 85

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the pipe assembly isconfigured to consist of only the bushing, nuts and pipes, other thanseals and splines.

Embodiment 86

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing isconfigured to radially engage and directly axially abut an axiallyplanar surface of each of the nuts after formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 87

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the bushing and nutsare configured to not be restrained from rotation relative to the pipesafter formation of the pipe assembly.

Embodiment 88

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein each nut comprises afirst inner diameter for engaging an exterior of a respective pipe, asecond inner diameter for receiving a portion of a spline, and a thirdinner diameter for engaging the bushing.

Embodiment 89

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the first innerdiameter<the second inner diameter<the third inner diameter.

Embodiment 90

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the first innerdiameter is substantially similar to the bushing inner diameter, and thesecond inner diameter>the bushing inner diameter.

Embodiment 91

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the first innerdiameter is substantially constant along an entire axial length thereof.

Embodiment 92

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the second innerdiameter is substantially constant along an entire axial length thereof.

Embodiment 93

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the second innerdiameter is located axially between the first inner diameter and thethird inner diameter.

Embodiment 94

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the first, second andthird inner diameters each has a nut segment axial length (NSAL), andthe second NSAL>the first NSAL>the third NSAL.

Embodiment 95

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the nuts comprise anut outer diameter that is substantially constant along an entire axiallength thereof, other than tool engagement flats.

Embodiment 96

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the two pipes areconfigured to substantially axially abut each other after formation ofthe pipe assembly.

Embodiment 97

The coupling of any of these embodiments, wherein the two pipes areconfigured to be free of contact with each other after formation of thepipe assembly.

Embodiment 98

A system for forming a joint between two pipes, the coupling comprising:

a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an exterior, a borewith an inner diameter, and the bore is configured to receive axial endsof the pipes; and

first and second rings, wherein only one of the first and second ringsis configured to contact the exterior of the bushing, and the first andsecond rings are configured to be removably attached to each other andto the pipes to form the joint.

Embodiment 99

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising retainingrings configured to couple the first and second rings to each other andto the pipes.

Embodiment 100

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ringscomprise splines.

Embodiment 101

A system for forming a joint between two pipes, the coupling comprising:

first and second rings, each having a tubular profile with an axis, eachof the first and second rings is configured to receive an axial end of arespective one of the pipes, and one of the first and second rings isconfigured to overlap the other of the first and second rings relativeto the axis; and

the first and second rings are configured to be removably attached toeach other and to the pipes with retaining rings to form the joint.

Embodiment 102

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ringscomprise splines.

Embodiment 103

A system for restraining pipes, comprising:

first and second pipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent anaxial end thereof;

a bushing configured to bridge and hydraulically seal with the first andsecond pipes; and

first and second rings, each configured to removably attach the bushingto a respective one of the first and second pipes, and when the systemis assembled the first and second rings have fingers that interlock witheach other.

Embodiment 104

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising a retainingring configured to be installed in the groove of a respective one of thefirst and second pipes, and the retaining ring is configured to becaptured inside a recess of a respective one of the first and secondrings.

Embodiment 105

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ringcomprises a spline.

Embodiment 106

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising a retainingring configured to secure the first and second rings to at least one ofeach other and the bushing.

Embodiment 107

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ring isaxially centralized on at least one of the bushing and the first andsecond rings.

Embodiment 108

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the interlockingfingers is rectilinear in shape and configured to be parallel to otherones of the interlocking fingers when engaged.

Embodiment 109

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the interlocking fingersare configured to accept and engage a retaining ring.

Embodiment 110

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the fingerscomprises a finger spline groove, the bushing comprises a bushing splinegroove, and the retaining ring comprises a spline configured to belocated in the finger spline grooves and bushing spline groove.

Embodiment 111

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the first andsecond rings further comprises a spline access hole in communicationwith the finger spline grooves and configured for spline ingress andegress.

Embodiment 112

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein, when the system isassembled, the spline access holes collectively form a single, unitaryspline access hole for the system.

Embodiment 113

A system for restraining pipes, comprising:

first and second pipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent anaxial end thereof;

a bushing configured to bridge and hydraulically seal with the first andsecond pipes;

first and second rings, each configured to removably attach the bushingto a respective one of the first and second pipes; and

a retaining ring configured to secure the first and second rings to atleast one of each other and the bushing.

Embodiment 114

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein, when the system isassembled, the first and second rings have fingers that interlock witheach other.

Embodiment 115

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ring isaxially centralized on at least one of the bushing and the first andsecond rings.

Embodiment 116

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein the retaining ring islocated on an exterior of the bushing.

Embodiment 117

A system for restraining pipes, comprising:

first and second pipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent anaxial end thereof; and

first and second rings, each configured to be removably attached to arespective one of the first and second pipes with a retaining ring, andwhen the system is assembled the first and second rings have fingersthat interlock with each other.

Embodiment 118

The system of any of these embodiments, wherein each of the retainingrings comprises a spline.

Embodiment 119

The system of any of these embodiments, further comprising a bushingconfigured to bridge and hydraulically seal with the first and secondpipes, and the bushing is located between the first and second pipes andthe first and second rings.

This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments,including the best mode, and also to enable those of ordinary skill inthe art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is definedby the claims, and may include other examples that occur to thoseskilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within thescope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differfrom the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalentstructural elements with insubstantial differences from the literallanguages of the claims.

Note that not all of the activities described above in the generaldescription or the examples are required, that a portion of a specificactivity may not be required, and that one or more further activitiesmay be performed in addition to those described. Still further, theorder in which activities are listed are not necessarily the order inwhich they are performed.

In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been described withreference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in theart appreciates that various modifications and changes can be madewithout departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in theclaims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to beregarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and allsuch modifications are intended to be included within the scope ofinvention.

It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words andphrases used throughout this patent document. The term “communicate,” aswell as derivatives thereof, encompasses both direct and indirectcommunication. The terms “include” and “comprise,” as well asderivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” isinclusive, meaning and/or. The phrase “associated with,” as well asderivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within,interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with,couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave,juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a propertyof, have a relationship to or with, or the like. The phrase “at leastone of,” when used with a list of items, means that differentcombinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and onlyone item in the list may be needed. For example, “at least one of: A, B,and C” includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, Aand C, B and C, and A and B and C.

Also, the use of “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements andcomponents described herein. This is done merely for convenience and togive a general sense of the scope of the invention. This descriptionshould be read to include one or at least one and the singular alsoincludes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

The description in the present application should not be read asimplying that any particular element, step, or function is an essentialor critical element that must be included in the claim scope. The scopeof patented subject matter is defined only by the allowed claims.Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) with respect toany of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words“means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim,followed by a participle phrase identifying a function. Use of termssuch as (but not limited to) “mechanism,” “module,” “device,” “unit,”“component,” “element,” “member,” “apparatus,” “machine,” “system,”“processor,” or “controller” within a claim is understood and intendedto refer to structures known to those skilled in the relevant art, asfurther modified or enhanced by the features of the claims themselves,and is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have beendescribed above with regard to specific embodiments. However, thebenefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that maycause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become morepronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essentialfeature of any or all the claims.

After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate thatcertain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context ofseparate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a singleembodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity,described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be providedseparately or in any subcombination. Further, references to valuesstated in ranges include each and every value within that range.

What is claimed is:
 1. A pipe restraining system, comprising: first andsecond pipes, each having an axis and a groove adjacent an axial endthereof; a bushing configured to bridge and hydraulically seal with thefirst and second pipes; and first and second clamp rings, eachconfigured to removably attach the bushing to a respective one of thefirst and second pipes, such that when the pipe restraining system isassembled, axial tensile loads passing through the first pipe aretransmitted through the first clamp ring, the bushing and the secondclamp ring to the second pipe, and an axial distance between the firstand second pipes remains substantially constant.
 2. The pipe restrainingsystem of claim 1, wherein during disassembly of the pipe restrainingsystem and without axially moving the first and second pipes, thebushing is configured to axially slide completely over one of the firstand second pipes and have no overlap with the other of the first andsecond pipes.
 3. The pipe restraining system of claim 1, wherein each ofthe first and second clamp rings comprises a flange that mates with thegroove in a respective one of the first and second pipes when assembled.4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a retaining ring configuredto be installed in the groove of a respective one of the first andsecond pipes, and the retaining ring is configured to be captured insidea recess of a respective one of the first and second clamp rings; andwherein each clamp ring is fully cylindrical without a split in theclamp ring, and each clamp ring comprises a first inner diameter (ID)sized to fit over an outer diameter (OD) of each pipe but not over theOD of the retaining ring, and a second ID sized to fit over the OD ofthe bushing.
 5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a splineconfigured to attach the first and second clamp rings to the bushing. 6.The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second clamp rings threadto each other or to the bushing.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein thefirst and second clamp rings comprise fingers that are configured tointerlock, and the interlocking fingers are configured to accept andengage a spline with the bushing.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein eachof the first and second clamp rings does not comprise a full cylindricalshape.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein axial compressive loads passingthrough the first pipe are transmitted through the first clamp ring, thebushing and the second clamp ring to the second pipe.
 10. A coupling forforming a joint between at least two pipes, the coupling comprising: abushing having a tubular profile with an axis, an axial length, a borewith an inner diameter, an exterior with an outer diameter, clampgrooves on an exterior of the bushing, and the bushing is configured toreceive axial ends of pipes; and first and second clamps, eachconfigured to be removably attached to a respective one of the clampgrooves in the bushing and a respective one of the pipes.
 11. Thecoupling of claim 10, wherein the bushing is configured to symmetricallystraddle two pipes relative to the axis, and the two pipes areconfigured to be free of contact with each other.
 12. The coupling ofclaim 10, wherein the bushing bore comprises seal grooves, and thebushing bore comprises seals mounted in the seal grooves.
 13. Thecoupling of claim 10, wherein each pipe is configured to comprise a sealgroove on the exterior thereof, and each pipe is configured to comprisea seal mounted in the seal groove on the exterior thereof.
 14. Thecoupling of claim 10, wherein each pipe is configured to comprise aclamp groove on an exterior thereof, and the pipe clamp grooves areradially offset from the bushing clamp grooves with respect to the axis,such that the pipe clamp grooves are not co-planar with the bushingclamp grooves.
 15. The coupling of claim 10, wherein each clamp has apipe lip and a bushing lip extending from an interior thereof, the pipelip is sized and spaced to cooperatively mate with a pipe groove, andthe bushing lip is sized and spaced to cooperatively mate with one ofthe clamp grooves on the bushing to form a rigid pipe assembly.
 16. Thecoupling of claim 10, wherein each clamp comprises semi-cylindricalclamp portions that are configured to mirror each other and form acomplete cylindrical clamp around one of the pipes and the bushing wheninstalled.
 17. The coupling of claim 16, wherein the semi-cylindricalclamp portions comprise features configured to form a hinge when matedtogether.
 18. The coupling of claim 10, wherein the clamps comprise noseals.
 19. The coupling of claim 10, wherein the only seals areconfigured to be between the bushing and respective ones of the pipes.20. The coupling of claim 10, wherein each clamp comprises a taperedprofile to reduce drag during pipe installation.
 21. The coupling ofclaim 10, wherein an axial center of the bushing comprises a tapped holeconfigured for connection to a component.
 22. The coupling of claim 10,wherein the coupling comprises an anchor configured to enhance movementof the coupling relative to the pipe using tools.
 23. The coupling ofclaim 10, wherein the coupling is configured to comprise ahydraulically-sealed interface between the pipes and the clamps areconfigured to maintain the pipes axially spaced-apart from each other inoperation including under fluid pressure, and tensile and compressiveloading conditions.
 24. The coupling of claim 10, wherein when the pipesare assembled with the coupling, tensile loads applied axially aretransferred through the clamps to the pipes.
 25. A coupling for forminga joint between at least two pipes, each of the pipes having a clampgroove, the coupling comprising: a bushing having a tubular profile withan axis, an axial length, a bore with an inner diameter, an exteriorwith an outer diameter, and the bushing is configured to receive axialends of pipes; and first and second clamps, each configured to beremovably attached to the bushing and to a respective one of the clampgrooves in a respective one of the pipes.
 26. A pipe assembly,comprising: a bushing having a tubular profile with an axis, bushingaxial ends, and a bore with inner seal grooves; first and second pipesmounted in the bore of the bushing, each pipe having a pipe axial endand an outer clamp groove; a distance A is defined as an axial overlapdistance from one of the bushing axial ends to a respective pipe axialend; and a distance B is defined as an axial separation distance fromone of the bushing inner seal grooves to a respective pipe outer clampgroove, and B>A.
 27. The pipe assembly of claim 26, wherein the bore ofthe bushing comprises a stop for limiting axial travel of the pipes, adistance C is defined as an axial stop distance from the stop to arespective pipe axial end, and C>A.
 28. A pipe restraining system,comprising: first and second pipes, each having an axis and a grooveadjacent an axial end thereof; a bushing configured to bridge andhydraulically seal with the first and second pipes, and the bushing isthreaded; and first and second nuts, each configured to thread to thebushing and removably attach the bushing to a respective one of thefirst and second pipes, such that when the pipe restraining system isassembled, axial tensile loads passing through the first pipe aretransmitted through the first nut, the bushing and the second nut to thesecond pipe, and an axial distance between the first and second pipesremains substantially constant.
 29. The system of claim 28, wherein thebushing is configured to radially engage and directly axially abut anaxially planar surface of each of the nuts after formation of the pipeassembly.
 30. The system of claim 28, wherein each nut comprises a firstinner diameter for engaging an exterior of a respective pipe, a secondinner diameter for receiving a portion of a spline, and a third innerdiameter for engaging the bushing; and the first inner diameter<thesecond inner diameter<the third inner diameter.
 31. A system forrestraining pipes, comprising: first and second pipes, each having anaxis and a groove adjacent an axial end thereof; a bushing configured tobridge and hydraulically seal with the first and second pipes; and firstand second rings, each configured to removably attach the bushing to arespective one of the first and second pipes, and when the system isassembled the first and second rings have fingers that interlock witheach other.
 32. The system of claim 31, further comprising a retainingring configured to be installed in the groove of a respective one of thefirst and second pipes, and the retaining ring is configured to becaptured inside a recess of a respective one of the first and secondrings.
 33. The system of claim 31, further comprising a retaining ringconfigured to secure the first and second rings to at least one of eachother and the bushing.
 34. The system of claim 31, wherein theinterlocking fingers are configured to accept and engage a retainingring.